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>> US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has warned of China's actions in the South China Sea, calling them quote, intimidating and coercive.>> China's policy in the South China Sea stands in stark contrast to the openness of our strategy. What our strategy promotes, it calls in to question China's broader goals.

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The US will continue to pursue a constructive results oriented relationship with China cooperation whenever possible will be the name of the game and competing vigorously where we must.>> The comments made at the annual Shangri-La come at a time of increased tensions between the two nations. President Donald Trump's administration is looking to balance Chinese corporation on North Korea while dealing with Beijing's activities in the South China sea.

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The area's islands are disputed by several nations including Vietnam and the Philippines. The Pentagon has long complained that China has been building up it's military presence in the region. Last month, China's air force landed bombers on disputed islands and reefs as part of a training exercise. Triggering concern from neighbors.

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Speaking about the upcoming summit between Trump and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, later this month, Mattis said the US wants complete denuclearization of the Korean peninsula. And added that the stations of US troops in South Korea will not be on the table.>> Any discussion about the number of US Troops in the Republic of Korea is subject to one, the Republic of Korea's invitation to have them there and the discussions between the United States and the Republic of Korea separate and distinct from the negotiations that are going on with DPRK.

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>> Mattis also reiterated that the Pentagon was committed to working with Taiwan to provide articles and services needed for its self-defense, comments that are likely to anger China.